Bile duct stones that can't be removed by conventional means can often be removed after fragmentation by shock waves (lithotripsy). The shock waves that are used for fragmentation of these stones are generated by electric sparks (electrohydraulic lithotripsy) or laser (laser lithotripsy). Although both techniques have been used for many years, there are no studies comparing the efficacy of the two. The purpose of this study is to find out which technique is more effective.

Procedures will be considered standard of care; patients or insurance companies will be billed as it is standard of care.

Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study:

18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)

Genders Eligible for Study:

Both

Accepts Healthy Volunteers:

No

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1 or more gall stones in bile duct which cannot be removed using conventional methods (must be fragmented)

Adults able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

Pregnancy or lactation

Contacts and Locations

Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study.
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below.
For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.

Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01571271